Oct. 3, 2013

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Under the Dome - The Blog

Assemblyman Luis Alejo had a big day Thursday when Gov. Jerry Brown celebrated his AB 60 -- a historic measure which for the first time allow undocumented immigrants to apply for a state driver's license -- in not one but two venues.

Alejo (D-Watsonville) saw the governor sign the bill into law in Los Angeles and in Fresno.

The new laws are expected to increase road safety by ensuring that all drivers are properly trained, pass the DMV driving test, know our state traffic laws, and are insured.

Here is Alejo's press release issued Thursday:

“I am proud to have authored a historic measure for the state of California. I want to commend the Governor for understanding the reality faced by 1.4 million unlicensed drivers who have waited for nearly two decades to have an opportunity to drive to work without fear,” states Alejo. “With AB 60 we are recognizing the needs of many hard-working immigrants living here and contributing so much to our great state. Immigrants who drive legally are more likely to work, spend and contribute to the economy. And those with driver's licenses will have more job opportunities available to them, which will boost businesses in the state.”

Los Angeles City Councilmember and former Senator Gil Cedillo worked on this historic legislation for over a decade. He states, "Today marks an important day in history, and ends a long chapter of fighting for the public safety of all drivers on our roads. I applaud our State Legislators and Governor for doing the right thing in understanding the significance and impact this bill will have on the millions of undocumented workers who simply want to feel safe driving to and from work.”

“The Governor’s signature on AB60 opens a window of opportunity unfairly closed shut to millions of Californians in 1993. The state legislature recognizes a driver’s license makes our roads safer and offers a practical tool for any Californian, regardless of immigration status, that can be used to conduct everyday tasks that greatly contribute to our state’s growth,” states Angelica Salas, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) Executive Director.

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Earlier this month, Governor Brown indicated strong support for the measure. He stated in a press release, “This bill will enable millions of people to get to work safely and legally. Hopefully, it will send a message to Washington that immigration reform is long past due.”

“This legislation will assure that all persons who drive in California are licensed, have insurance, and are subject to enforcement of California’s driving laws,” states Kim Raney, President of the California Police Chiefs Association. “Assembly Bill 60 also provides for needed identification security which will enable those charged with limiting access to secure locations to make the appropriate inquiry of anyone presenting a driver’s license to obtain such access.”

AB 60 passed the Legislature last month with a historic bipartisan vote in both the Assembly and the Senate.